Guide to vape detectors for K‑12 schools and campuses

How do school vape detectors work?

School vape detectors work by continuously monitoring the air quality in specific locations for indicators of the unique chemicals, gasses and other particulate matter known to be present in e‑cigarette vapor. If the concentration of these substances rises above a certain threshold, in-built alarms will sound, and admins will be notified remotely of a suspected vaping incident.

Modern vape alarms in schools will usually be fitted with one of two specific types of sensors:

• Particulate sensors — These sensors use laser scattering technology to detect vape aerosols suspended in the air, the presence of which will instantly trigger the device.

• Gas sensors — Gasses associated with vaping are detected by changes observed in electrical resistance or infrared radiation; alarms are then triggered in direct response.

Some vape detectors for schools will use a combination of the above sensors to improve the accuracy of readings. In addition, school vape detectors can be configured to detect multiple different stimuli, including traditional smoke, THC, nicotine, sound, temperature and pressure.

No matter which style of school vape detector is in operation, most modern systems will be configured to alert on-site staff of suspected infractions via secure text, email or app-based communications. The best vape detectors for schools will include time and location data in these messages to enable admins and security staff to pursue real-time incident responses.

Common risks of vaping in schools

With reports revealing almost 30% of high school students and over 10% of middle school students in America vape regularly, many educators are facing significant challenges with regard to rising tobacco, marijuana and e‑cigarette use in schools. Developing detection systems to prevent vaping in schools can help admins mitigate numerous serious risks like:

• Health risks: Harmful ingredients in vapes can cause serious lung damage, especially in young people, as well as contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. Vaping has also been linked with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
• Poor academic performance: Research reveals children who use e‑cigarettes on a regular basis often perform worse academically than their peers. Vaping has been shown to have a detrimental effect on attention span, learning and memory abilities in teens, potentially leading to classroom disruptions.
• Legal and regulatory issues: Federal law prohibits smoking and vaping in all educational environments serving children under the age of 18. Schools may also have their own policies about vaping that can be hard to enforce without the aid of detectors.
• Distracting school atmosphere: If teachers are constantly needing to address vaping in the classroom and on school grounds, relationships between students and teachers can begin to deteriorate, leading to a distracting and negative school-wide environment.
• Removal of students: Some states have implemented new laws intended to remove vaping offenders from standard education settings. For example, students found to be using nicotine or THC products on school properties in Texas can now be removed and sent to specialized disciplinary campuses.

HALO: The all-in-one vape detector

Substance and Smoke Detection Identify vape smoke, masking and harmful substances like marijuana (THC).
Air Quality Monitoring Monitor air quality for pollutants (CO, particulate matter, VOC and NO₂ levels) to maintain a healthy environment.
Emergency and Security Alerts Get real-time alerts for spoken keyword detection, panic button activation and motion detection.
Smart Safety Enhancements Detect aggression, gunshots, tampering, occupancy and light levels to improve security.
Integration with Existing Security Unlock complete visibility of incidents with video management, access control and alert system integrations.
Environmental Control Monitor temperature and humidity to avoid health and structural problems.

The benefits of vape sensors for schools

While the primary reason for installing vape sensors in schools is to better identify and deter vaping and smoking incidents, there are several wider benefits that can be realized through the development of school vape detector solutions. From compliance management to air quality improvements, below are a few benefits associated with school vape detectors.

Improved air quality

Installing vape detectors in school bathrooms and other high-risk locations enables teams to analyze the air quality in school buildings. Some types of vape smoke detectors for schools can be configured to identify additional hazards like carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and TVOC, helping admins address issues and maintain compliance with air quality regulations.

Enhanced student health

Nicotine and other chemicals present in e‑cigarette vapor can contribute to numerous health and developmental issues in young adults. Installing vape and nicotine detectors in schools enables faculty members to effectively limit the likelihood of students being exposed to both first and secondhand smoke, ultimately improving student health through preventive actions. 

Increased addiction awareness and support

While nicotine is a highly addictive substance in its own right, the act of vaping itself can also be considered habit-forming. Installing vape monitors in schools may act as an approachable way to spread awareness of addiction among students, enabling faculty members to directly offer support to school members who may be struggling with smoking and vaping addictions.

Boosted academic performance

Research published in 2021 suggests that students who regularly use e‑cigarettes and other tobacco products are more likely to miss assignments, skip classes and report lower GPAs than their smoke-free peers. Vape detection systems for schools act as a visible deterrent for students who may be considering taking up vaping and also help staff catch main offenders.

Ensured legal and regulatory compliance

Schools across the US are legally required to deter and address vaping incidents inside school buildings and on school grounds. Alongside laws in many states prohibiting the use of tobacco products indoors and in public spaces, specific regulations often apply to educational facilities.

For example, while vaping on public school property is already against the law in Kentucky, local lawmakers want to pass a bill that would legally require staff to confiscate vapes from students using them on school grounds. Under this law, repeat offenders would also face legally enforced disciplinary action and/​or suspension from school.

For schools to ensure legal and regulatory compliance with existing and future vaping bans, administrators must develop and install accurate and reliable vape smoke detectors for schools.

Features to look for in a vape detection system

Cloud-based management

Cloud-based vape detectors for schools can be linked to wider security systems via a combined cloud management platform, enabling on-site staff and security teams to view live data remotely at all times. This means instant alerts can be sent to mobile smart devices warning of events in progress, including accurate time and location data to help staff respond quickly and effectively. 

Analytics and reporting

The more information staff can collect pertaining to vaping incidents, the more accurately they can respond to and address offenses. Schools should prioritize vape detectors featuring built-in analytics capabilities, including software that can produce trend graphs detailing key information like the times, dates and locations of incidents, as this data can be used to inform wider policies.

Reporting capabilities are another important feature to look for. School vape detection systems that can send instant alerts and copies of trend reports to staff via SMS, email and app-based communications ensure teachers and security staff are always aware of current security events.

Customizable controls

Customizable controls allow admins to adjust school vape detectors to meet site-specific needs. Look for sensors with adjustable detection thresholds, alarm settings and reporting features that enable users to determine which devices and staff members receive alerts during specific times and dates. Developing custom solutions ensures incidents are always addressed appropriately.

Privacy standards

As school vape detectors are usually installed in private areas like changing rooms and restrooms, it’s essential that the installed devices cannot record audio or video. Integrations with video security cameras may be pursued in public areas like hallways and common rooms, but only in accordance with relevant data privacy and safeguarding rules associated with school properties. 

Multiple built-in sensors

To improve the efficacy of school vape detectors and to reduce the likelihood of false alarms, it’s important to select a system that features multiple different types of built-in sensor technologies.

Particulate sensors

Particulate sensors use laser-scattering technology to accurately identify specific aerosols found in vape smoke. This includes chemicals like vegetable glycerin, propylene glycol and particles of nicotine suspended in the air. These sensors are specially designed to detect e‑cigarette vapor.

Gas sensors

Gas sensors can detect unique gases associated with vape smoke through changes in electrical resistance and/​or infrared radiation. These sensors ensure events are detected even in environments like bathrooms, where moisture may impact the efficacy of particulate sensors.

Environmental sensors

Specialized Internet of Things (IoT) sensors can be integrated into vape alarms in schools to offer teams additional contextual data regarding potential incidents. For example, occupancy sensors may be used to confirm the validity of a triggered vape alarm signal, while IoT sound sensors can be used to warn teams of additional events like break-ins or violent altercations. Utilizing vape detectors with environmental sensor capabilities can help prevent school violence and other incidents beyond vaping.

A wide variety of IoT sensors, including temperature, humidity, pressure, sound and air quality sensors for schools, can be deployed to offer security teams a more holistic view of the campus. Data collected by these additional sensors can help admins discern further details like the number of people present and identify wider risks like fires, chemical leaks and acts of vandalism.

Anti-tampering alarms

Vape sensors in schools may be tampered with by students attempting to avoid detection while vaping. Some of the best vape detectors for schools feature silent tamper alarms designed to send discreet alerts to staff warning of attempted vandalism and requesting teams to respond.

Integration possibilities for school vape detectors

The performance of both a vape sensor for schools and existing security technologies can be improved through the development of unique integrations. By combining these technologies within a greater cloud-based management system, admins and security teams can view real-time data collected from multiple devices, even remotely, and configure automated responses.

Video security systems

Vape sensors in schools can also be connected to existing IP security cameras, enabling teams to better investigate potential offenses and secure evidence of vaping events. Teams can program cameras to record and flag footage in response to the activation of school vape detectors so that they can identify the students involved and address the behavior.

Access control systems

Positive alarms from vape sensors can be used as a trigger to automatically lock access control systems, preventing vapers from leaving the area. Nearby access readers may also be programmed to automatically flag access events in response to triggered sensors, enabling security teams to see which credentials were last used to access the area when investigating incidents.

Emergency alert systems

Vape detectors can be integrated into panic alert systems to provide security staff a holistic view of emergency events. Admins can receive instant push notifications regarding different types of events, with time, location and cause-of-activation data included to ensure informed responses.

HVAC systems

When integrated into HVAC infrastructure, positive alarms from vape and air quality sensors can be used to automatically activate ventilation systems. Admins can program custom responses to ensure ventilation systems switch on when levels of target stimuli exceed safe thresholds, with unique controls programmed to address things like vape smoke, pollutants and gas leaks.

How schools can efficiently detect vaping with the HALO Smart Sensor

The HALO Smart Sensor can provide a comprehensive solution for detecting vaping in school environments and helping improve student safety. Utilizing the latest in smart technology, HALO Smart Sensors are designed with privacy in mind, adding a layer of security in places not covered by video security like restrooms and change rooms.

HALO Smart Sensors are equipped with 16 sensors that fall into three primary categories:

• Environmental sensors: monitor temperature, humidity, pressure and light levels to provide contextual data that can influence air quality readings.
• Particulate matter sensors: detect different sizes of particulate matter (PM1, PM2.5, PM10) to identify the presence of vape aerosols in the air.
• Gas sensors: measure the presence of various gases, including carbon monoxide (CO), ammonia (NH3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon dioxide (CO2) and total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs).

One of the key benefits of HALO Smart Sensors is their ability to learn and adapt to the environment to identify vaping activities accurately. The sensors can detect vaping with or without THC and even recognize attempts to mask vaping behavior. For example, if a student tried to conceal vaping by using cologne, the HALO sensor leverages sophisticated detection algorithms to differentiate these masking agents and alert your security team.

The sensors enable customizable events, allowing schools to modify threshold limits and set specific logic between different sensors to tailor the system to their unique needs. Once a vaping is detected, the sensors immediately notify school security teams via secure methods such as text, email or app-based communications, so they can respond accordingly.

The HALO Smart Sensor integrates easily with existing school security systems, including video management systems (VMS), building management systems and other third-party platforms. This integration enhances overall security by combining vape detection with broader monitoring capabilities. Additionally, integration with HALO Cloud Services allows you to access real-time data, trend analysis and customized reports, enabling proactive resource allocation and incident management.

Best practices for implementing vape sensors for schools

When implementing a bespoke school vape detection system, administrators and security staff must consider a number of factors that could impact the efficacy of the finished installation. Below are some best practices for developing and implementing school vape detection systems.

Location of sensors

An analysis of previous vaping incidents should be conducted to identify appropriate areas for sensors to be installed. Examples of high-risk locations include bathrooms, stairwells, changing rooms, entryways and other similarly secluded/​private areas where students often congregate.

Types of sensors

Specific types of school vape sensors will be required for some areas. For example, particulate sensors can be prone to false alarms in bathrooms and locker rooms where moisture and aerosol deodorants are present. Air flow can also impact readings, so staff must make sure sensors are installed in the direct path of the room’s natural air flow. Choosing to implement school vape detectors featuring multiple types of sensors will help mitigate these issues.

Power availability

If sensors are to be installed in areas where main power supplies are inaccessible, wireless vape detectors will be required. Staff must ensure these devices are in the range of a strong and secure Wi-Fi connection and implement plans to replace batteries at regular intervals.

Integration considerations

Staff must consider integrating school vape detectors with existing security systems prior to installing them. Integrations must also comply with relevant laws and regulations. For example, sensors installed in bathrooms and locker rooms cannot be integrated alongside video security cameras or sound detectors, as doing so would breach safeguarding and privacy regulations.

For areas where integrations are possible, teams must ensure existing devices are compatible with proposed vape sensors, and that all devices can be managed within the same platform. In addition, communications between systems must be encrypted and secured using cybersecurity tools to mitigate the threat of cyber-attacks and maintain compliance with data privacy rules.

Maintenance plans

School vape detectors must be inspected and maintained regularly to ensure they’re working as intended. Physical inspections must be conducted frequently to check for signs of damage and obstructions, as well as to replace batteries in wireless devices. Vape sensors will also need to be calibrated and software will need to be updated regularly to ensure systems work effectively.

Training and education

Staff must be provided with comprehensive training covering desired responses to triggered vape alarms. Training must include factors like responding to audible alarms, accessing management systems, rearming devices, apprehending offenders and filing reports. Staff must also be made aware of the system’s capabilities regarding integrations and potential false alarms.

Students must also be educated about the purpose and capabilities of school vape detectors. Staff can use this opportunity to notify students of the repercussions of vaping and smoking on school grounds, as well as inform them of available addiction support services and resources that they can access discreetly if required.

How much do vape detectors for schools cost?

Figuring out how much vape detectors cost for schools can help the organization allocate a budget to purchase them. While there are many affordable vape detectors on the market today, it is recommended that schools procure their solution from a reputable security solution provider to avoid investing money in inexpensive and inadequate systems that may not effectively serve their intended purpose.

The price of vape detectors for schools can range from $150 USD to $3,000 USD, depending on the quality of the product and included features and capabilities. While this is the cost of a vape detector, it doesn’t include the costs for installation, accompanying software and maintenance.

The cost of installing vape detectors for schools

Upon purchasing a vape detection solution, it is recommended that you hire a professional installer to get the security system up and running, especially for larger projects. The cost of installing a vape detector can cost thousands of dollars, especially if the job requires multiple detectors and complex wiring. Therefore, it is important to keep the installation cost in mind when procuring a vape detector.

Software and maintenance fees

The total price of vape detectors for schools must also factor in the cost of the software to help run the system and the necessary maintenance activities that will be required to help ensure the solution is running effectively.

The cost of the software to run the vape detection system depends on several factors. These include whether the software is standalone or cloud-based and requires a yearly subscription fee, as well as whether the new vape detector system can integrate with your existing video management system.

Securing grant funding for school vape sensors

In response to growing concerns about vaping and smoking in schools, several independent and government-backed school safety grant funds have been developed to assist administrators in financing new installations. In addition, schools can potentially leverage funds from the Juul lawsuit settlements, which are aimed at combating youth vaping and supporting educational and preventive measures. Each grant and its provider will have its terms and conditions, eligibility requirements and the amount of funding they can provide so it’s important for school administrators, security teams and other stakeholders to research to find the grant program that suits them best.

Where to find grants for vape detectors in schools

A top tip to find grants for vape detectors in schools is to explore the Grants​.gov website and the School Safety Grants Finder Tool. Here, schools can find grant funding opportunities for vape detectors and discover the steps to apply and manage their applications.

It is important to regularly check these websites to ensure you don’t miss out on new opportunities for grants for vape detectors. You can check for the latest grants for vape detectors in schools by searching keywords including ​“vape detectors”, ​“vaping” or ​“school vape detectors”. To make it even easier, Grants​.gov and School​Safe​ty​.gov provide email notifications when new grant funding opportunities open up so you are kept informed.

Federal and state government funding opportunities

SAMHSA grant funding

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) grants are intended to help organizations implement effective behavioral health and substance abuse prevention initiatives in their communities. School administrators are able to review the SAMHSA Grant Dashboard to find applicable grant programs designed to fund the purchase of vape alarms.

ESSER funds

The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER) was originally established to provide aid to schools during the pandemic, with funds allocated to assist schools in mitigating the impact of coronavirus. If admins can provide evidence that vaping is causing issues in their school, ESSER funds may be used to secure school vape detectors.

State-specific grants

In many cases, vape detectors for schools can be purchased using grant funds associated with state-specific government departments, a few examples of which are included below: 

• Idaho Department of Education: Vape Detectors Pilot Grant
• Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction: AODA Grant
• California Department of Justice: Tobacco Grant Program

Private funding opportunities

As mentioned earlier, independent and private organizations offer grant funding too. Local community organizations, such as Rotary Clubs, religious institutions and social service groups, are a potential source for grants for vape detectors in schools. These groups are community-focused and want to see schools prosper and students learn in safe environments and therefore are more likely to support their local educational facility.

Crowdfunding

Should schools find no luck obtaining grants for vape detectors in schools through federal, state or private funding, crowdfunding has proven to be a successful avenue for some. By starting their crowdfunding journey on websites, such as GoFundMe, schools can receive donations from parents, wider community members and even organizations interested in helping out their local school.

Summary

Vaping and smoking incidents continue to impact school communities across the US, often contributing to issues regarding student health, academic performance and regulatory compliance. Unlike traditional cigarette smoke, e‑cigarette vapor can be particularly difficult to detect manually, meaning existing detection systems may not offer adequate assistance.

By installing vape sensors in schools, administrators and security staff can improve their ability to detect and address vaping incidents, ultimately benefiting students and faculty members alike. Vape detectors can also help strengthen existing school security systems, enabling administrators to invest in the protection of school communities.